Optimal Audio has broadened its commercial audio offering with the launch of the Column Series, introducing two passive column loudspeakers designed to address the demands of both indoor and outdoor installation environments. Comprising the Column 8 and Column 16, the new range has been developed around practical requirements frequently cited by integrators, including complete installation hardware supplied as standard, IP54-rated protection, and seamless integration with the wider Optimal Audio ecosystem.

The Column 8 features eight 2.2-inch full-range drivers housed within a slim 610mm enclosure, delivering 150-degree horizontal and 7-degree vertical dispersion for consistent coverage while minimising unwanted reflections from ceilings and floors. For larger and more acoustically challenging environments, the Column 16 incorporates sixteen 2.2-inch drivers within a 1.1m cabinet, providing a tighter 5-degree vertical dispersion pattern for enhanced directional control. Both models are passive 8-ohm loudspeakers equipped with 70V and 100V transformer taps, and both achieve an IP54 rating when fitted with the supplied rear panel connector cover.

According to David Morbey, Product Manager at Optimal Audio, the introduction of the Column Series represents a logical expansion of the company’s installation loudspeaker portfolio. “Column loudspeakers were a natural next step for us,” said Morbey. “When you look at where commercial audio actually gets deployed, in houses of worship, conference venues, concourses and the busier end of hospitality, a column is often the right answer acoustically. Column 8 and Column 16 extend our addressable market, at a price point where integrators can specify them without a difficult conversation.”

Available in both black and white finishes, the new loudspeakers are also paintable, allowing them to blend more effectively with architectural surroundings. In keeping with Optimal Audio’s focus on installation simplicity, each model is supplied with a comprehensive installation package that includes a pan-and-tilt wall bracket, metal safety strap, rear panel connector cover and spare grille cloth for use when painting the cabinet.

The Column Series is fully compatible with Optimal Audio’s Zone controllers and WebApp platform, with factory-tuned Speech and Music DSP presets available to provide integrators with a proven starting point for system optimisation. The approach is intended to reduce commissioning time while delivering predictable performance across a wide range of applications.

Morbey believes the practical considerations built into the range are just as important as the acoustic performance itself. “This range delivers on the small stuff that matters in practice,” he pointed out.

He added, “Most of the category charges separately for the bits and pieces an integrator actually needs on the day. We’ve put the lot in the box. Combined with IP54 as standard and native integration with the rest of our ecosystem, you end up with a product that just works on arrival – which is what Optimal Audio has always tried to do: powerful in application, simple to use.”